Zoa Mattox

Zoa Mattox of Albuquerque New Mexico has passed away at the age of 85. Beloved mother, wife, daughter, and auntie she left to take her eternal rest August 28th, 2024.

Zoa was born in Ohio in 1939, where she spent most of her childhood. She described long days of playing with cousins and exploring the outdoors. In the late 1950s, she joined her sister Nancy at the University of New Mexico, where she earned a degree in Psychology.

Being young and seeking her next big adventure she drove across country by herself and took a job in Washington DC. She worked for the Federal Housing Authority, where she would eventually meet her future husband of 54 years, Harry. While in Washington she participated in the March on Washington where Martin Luther King gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. She also marched for Women's Rights. It was in her character to care about people, saying "why am I here if not to help?".

Harry and Zoa raised their two sons in Northern Virginia, until their retirement when they moved back to New Mexico, a place that Zoa loved. She was an active volunteer in the Assistance League and at the Blue Portal in Oldtown. She was always encouraging people to travel, as it was a big source of joy for her. She loved her cats, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Always quick to offer a drink or a smile, she will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved her.

Zoa was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Louise (Dusty); her sister, Nancy Barfield; and her husband, Harry Mattox. She is survived by her sons, Robert and Mason; daughter-in-law, Maribel; grandson, Patrick; in-laws, Phil and Virginia; nieces, Lori and Janet; nephew, David and their children.

A big thank you to all the people that helped with Zoa's care and comfort over the years. She loved you all.

The family will be having a private service before returning Zoa's ashes to North Carolina. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider a donation to one of her favorite charities (Joy Junction, Assistance League of Albuquerque, or Watermelon Mountain Ranch animal rescue).